1. Leader of Opposition Appointed in India
Why in News?
Rahul Gandhi has been appointed as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha after a decade, which was previously unfilled due to the lack of required numbers by any opposition party.
Key Aspects:
- Official Recognition: The Leader of Opposition must be a member of the largest opposition party holding at least 10% of total seats in the Lok Sabha, per the 1977 Act.
- Strategic Role: Plays a critical role in parliamentary processes, counterbalancing the ruling party and participating in high-level committees.
- Enhanced Democracy: Ensures diverse viewpoints in governance, strengthening the democratic process.
2. Significant Growth in India’s Rooftop Solar Capacity
Why in News?
India has marked a record growth in installed rooftop solar capacity, adding 2.99 GW in 2023-24, bringing the total to 11.57 GW.
Key Aspects:
- Market Potential: India holds a vast potential of 124 GW for rooftop solar, yet current installations indicate underutilization.
- Government Initiatives: Programs like the Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Scheme (Phase II) aim for a cumulative capacity of 40 GW by 2026.
- Challenges: Includes high installation costs, regulatory barriers, and technical issues.
3. European Union’s New Deforestation Regulation
Why in News?
The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is impacting Indian coffee exports as European buyers increase stocks ahead of the compliance deadline.
Key Aspects:
- Regulatory Impact: The EUDR aims to prevent the importation of products linked to deforestation, affecting commodities like coffee and palm oil.
- Compliance Pressure: Indian exporters are required to ensure their products comply with the EUDR’s sustainability criteria.
- Strategic Opportunities: Complying with the EUDR could strengthen India’s position in the EU market.
4. France’s Potential for Cohabitation in Government
Why in News?
France is heading towards a potential cohabitation where the President and the Prime Minister could be from different political parties, a situation not seen for 20 years.
Key Aspects:
- Definition and Impact: Cohabitation occurs when the President and Prime Minister are from opposing parties, potentially leading to policy gridlock.
- Historical Precedence: France has experienced several instances of cohabitation, impacting the dynamic between executive powers.
5. India’s Advancements in ‘Multi-omics’ Technology
Why in News?
India has made significant strides in ‘multi-omics,’ improving disease management and paving the way for personalized medicine.
Key Aspects:
- Technological Integration: Combines various omics technologies (like genomics and proteomics) to enhance disease diagnosis and treatment.
- Applications in Healthcare: Used in managing diseases such as tuberculosis and cancer, aiding in the development of targeted treatments.
- AI and ML Utilization: AI and machine learning are crucial in analyzing complex multi-omics data, and enhancing predictive capabilities.